Dele Alli: “I could score six goals in the next six games and there’ll still be some people who will have something bad to say”

For your Friday long read Joe.co.uk represented an exclusive interview with Tottenham Hotspur star Dele Alli. First game, a fine header - the match-winner, a new celebration. All good. Dele Alli started 2018-19 as he had mentally sketched it, exiting St James’ Park on 11 August having been pivotal to Tottenham’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle. Fast forward a month, and when Spurs hosted the League Cup fixture against Watford in Milton Keynes on account of their stadium setbacks, the midfielder wasn’t enacting the perfect script upon returning to his hometown, but more bending the encounter to his will. Dele was given the captain’s armband and a warm, local-boy-made-good reception on the ground that groomed his talents, scoring twice from the penalty spot, including the decisive strike in the shootout. “He was inspired by the occasion,” Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said post-match. “He was so excited beforehand, his energy was amazing. For him, it was an experience that he will remember for all of his life - to be Tottenham captain and score two goals! “Being a captain means a lot – it’s not just about wearing the armband. Dele spoke from the heart in his team-talk and I like that. I can’t tell you what he said but he was very good. “I think he did very well. He is more mature and has more experience. When you are young, you do some crazy things, but he has grown up. Read the full article here Joe.co.uk

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